Christina Applegate's emotional Emmys

Christina Applegate declared the Emmy awards are "what life's all about" after making one of her first major public appearances since beating breast cancer at the annual ceremony last night (21.09.08)

Christina Applegate declared the Emmy awards are "what life's all about" after making one of her first major public appearances since beating breast cancer.

The 'Samantha Who?' actress - who was presenting one of the prizes - couldn't disguise her happiness as she walked down the red carpet at the 60th annual event.

Christina - who underwent a double mastectomy operation - said: "It's a great day. I've got a pretty dress on and lipstick, and it's something I haven't done in two months. It really feels good to be here. That's what life's all about.

"Things happen, and you have to sit back and really, really embrace your life."

On the night, 'Mad Men' made Emmy history by becoming the first basic-cable show to win a top series award, taking home Best Drama despite averaging less than two million viewers per episode.

Sitcom '30 Rock' was the biggest winner of the evening, taking home Best Comedy Series, Best Writing in a Comedy Series and Best Actor and Actress for its stars, Tina Fey and Alec Baldwin - who declared his role "the greatest job I've ever had in my life".

In a humorous acceptance speech, Tina paid tribute to her family, saying: "I thank my parents for somehow raising me to have confidence that is disproportionate with my looks and abilities. Well done. That is what all parents should do."

Another memorable acceptance speech came from 'Damages' star Glenn Close, who paid tribute to her fellow nominees for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series - Sally Field, Mariska Hargitay, Dame Judi Dench, Kyra Sedgwick, Dame Helen Mirren and Holly Hunter - saying: "We're proving that complicated, powerful, mature women are sexy, high entertainment and can carry a show."

In a new category at the awards - which took place in Los Angeles - Jeff Probst took home Best Reality Series presenter.